Munib R. Masri is the founder and chairman of the Engineering & Development Group (Edgo). In the dynamic realm of oil and gas, Masri stands as an indomitable force, a trailblazer who laid the foundations of Edgo sixty-seven years ago. Born from humble financial beginnings, he embarked on an extraordinary journey, propelled by an unwavering commitment to excellence, resilience, and a profound sense of purpose.

 

Equipped with a BSc degree in petroleum geology from the University of Texas in Austin (1955) and an MSc in government and geology from Sul Ross University also in Texas (1956), Mr. Masri, along with his wife and fellow geologist, Angela, founded the Jordanian Office for Engineering and Geological Services, later to become Edgo. The company conducted hydrogeology consulting work and then expanded activities into water well drilling activities, becoming the largest regional company in this domain.

 

When only 28, Mr. Masri served as President of Phillips Petroleum in Algeria; later, working out of Lebanon, he became President of Operations in 16 countries across the Middle East and North Africa.

 

From the inception of Edgo, Masri toiled relentlessly in some of the harshest environments in the Middle East and Africa, defying all odds to transform his vision into reality. His grit and determination not only built a group but forged a legacy that continues to thrive under the stewardship of his son, the current CEO.

 

Masri is a former Vice Chairman of the Arab Bank, where he served for 33 years, and a former board member of the Oman Arab Bank and the Arab Bank (Switzerland). He also served as chairman of the Arab Tunisian Bank. In 1978, Masri was instrumental in the establishment of the Shoman Foundation, the Arab Bank’s philanthropic arm.

 

Masri is the co-founder and was the longest serving chairman of the Palestine Development and Investment Company (PADICO), whose primary goal is to develop the infrastructure of Palestine. Established in 1993, PADICO launched several companies including the Palestine Telecommunications Co. (Paltel) and the Palestine Securities Exchange (PSE). In 2010, Masri co-founded the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in Palestine and was its chairman. Masri is a former member of the Council of Advisers of the World Bank Middle East and North Africa.

 

Masri is a compassionate leader whose core values transcend the boardroom. A firm believer in the transformative power of philanthropy, he founded the Munib & Angela Masri Foundation in 1970. For decades, he has been championing causes close to his heart – from aiding the less fortunate to preserving heritage, fostering better education, and promoting knowledge production through robust research and development initiatives.

 

In 2015, Masri was inducted into the Hall of Distinction of the Jackson School of Geosciences at the University of Texas at Austin; he was the 31st member to be honored and the only Arab to receive such recognition. Induction is reserved for individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the field of geosciences in industry, government, or academia, and have a strong connection to the Jackson School.

 

He continues to be an active member of several cultural, educational, and philanthropic organizations including as honorary chairman of Taawon (Welfare Association) which he co-founded in 1983. He is a trustee emeritus of the American University of Beirut and chairman of the board of trustees of Al Quds University in Jerusalem, Palestine.

 

Authenticity is the cornerstone of Masri’s character. He believes in leading with integrity and respecting the diverse tapestry of individuals who form the backbone of Edgo. His commitment to community and environment is not just a corporate mantra but a deeply ingrained ethos that resonates throughout the group.

 

Beyond the balance sheets and corporate milestones, Mr. Masri’s passion for giving back to society has translated into impactful initiatives that ripple far beyond the oil and gas sector. His legacy is measured in the positive changes he has ignited in communities and the enduring commitment to sustainable practices. His journey is not just a story of success; it is a testament to the transformative power of education, hard work, and a genuine commitment to making the world a better place.